Common Use

Zocor is a cholesterol-lowering medication used to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood. It works by blocking the production of cholesterol in the body, helping to prevent conditions such as heart attack, heart disease, hardening of the arteries, stroke, and vascular disease. This medication can also reduce these risks in individuals with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and a history of stroke. For optimal results, use this medication in conjunction with a low-fat diet.

Dosage and Direction

Take Zocor orally with or without food or milk.

The recommended starting dose for adults is 20 to 40 milligrams once a day in the evening. The dosage may be adjusted every 4 weeks.

For children aged 10 to 17, the recommended starting dose is 10 milligrams once a day in the evening. The dosage can be adjusted every 4 weeks but should not exceed 40 mg daily. Girls must have menstruated for at least 12 months before starting Zocor therapy.

Children under 10 years old should only use Zocor with a doctor's permission.

Note: This information is for review purposes only. Always consult your doctor before use to ensure the best results.

Precautions

Before taking Zocor, consult your doctor if you have a history of alcoholism, liver disease, severe infection, kidney disease, low thyroid function, heart disease, or allergies. Limit alcohol intake, as it may increase side effects. Note that Zocor may elevate the risk of liver problems. During treatment, limit grapefruit or grapefruit juice consumption to less than 1 quart daily, as it may increase the risk of serious side effects.

For women: Zocor should not be used during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, or while breastfeeding. Do not use before breastfeeding without your doctor's approval.

Contraindications

Zocor is contraindicated for patients with active liver disease, unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases, or hypersensitivity to any component of the medication. It is also contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. While atherosclerosis is a chronic process, discontinuing lipid-lowering medications during pregnancy typically has minimal impact on long-term therapy for primary hypercholesterolemia. Zocor reduces cholesterol synthesis and is contraindicated for pregnant and nursing women. It should only be administered to women of childbearing age who are highly unlikely to conceive. If pregnancy occurs while taking Zocor, discontinue the medication immediately and inform the patient of the potential fetal risks.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects may include allergic reactions. Common side effects are:

• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness with fever, flu symptoms, and dark-colored urine.

Less serious side effects include:

• Mild stomach pain, gas, bloating, stomach upset, or heartburn.
• Nausea.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.

If you experience any severe side effects, stop using Zocor and consult your doctor immediately. Notify your doctor of any unusual side effects.

Drug Interactions

Zocor may interact with the following medications:

• Danazol.
• Gemfibrozil (Lopid), clofibrate, or fenofibrate.
• Niacin.
• Nefazodone.
• Cholestyramine or colestipol.
• Warfarin.
• Amiodarone, diltiazem, or verapamil.
• Erythromycin, clarithromycin, or telithromycin.
• Antifungal medications such as itraconazole, fluconazole, or ketoconazole.
• Drugs that weaken the immune system, such as cancer medications, steroids, cyclosporine, sirolimus, tacrolimus, and others.
• HIV or AIDS medications such as amprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, lopinavir-ritonavir, or saquinavir.

Drug interactions do not always require stopping one medication but may affect their efficacy. Consult your doctor to manage interactions appropriately.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose. Resume your regular dosing schedule the next day.

Overdose

An overdose of Zocor is typically not life-threatening but may cause symptoms such as myalgia and red urine in severe cases. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

Store Zocor at room temperature between 59-77°F (15-25°C) away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of medications and does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. It is not intended for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your needs. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of this information and are not responsible for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from its use or self-treatment.